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When you hear the phrase “last will and testament,” do you picture someone older, with decades of life and assets behind them? If you’re in your twenties or thirties, you might assume that estate planning doesn’t apply to you. But ask yourself this: if something unexpected happened, who would make decisions about your belongings, your health care, or even your pets?
The truth is, creating a will is not only about wealth. It’s about choice, control, and protecting the people (and pets) you care about. Here are nine reasons young adults in Minnesota should consider drafting a will sooner rather than later.
1. You’re Entering the Military
If you’ve joined the armed forces, having your affairs in order is a practical step. Military service can involve risks, and a will allows you to clearly outline who should inherit your belongings and who should make decisions on your behalf. Along with your will, it’s smart to create a health care directive and powers of attorney to cover medical and financial matters.
2. You’ve Received an Inheritance
Even if you think of inherited money or property as something distant, it still counts as your asset. Without a will, distributing those funds can become slow, complicated, and stressful for your family. A clear plan ensures your inheritance is used as you intend.
3. You Own a Pet
Pets are family members, and they deserve security, too. A will lets you name a guardian and even set aside resources for their care. This way, you can be sure your dog, cat, or other beloved animal has a safe home if something happens to you.
4. You Want to Protect Your Family From Probate
In Minnesota, if you die without a will, your estate must go through probate. Even a modest estate—bank accounts, personal property, or a life insurance payout—can get tied up in this court process. By putting a will and other documents in place, you save your family time, money, and stress.
5. You Have Social Media and Digital Assets
Think about the digital footprint you already have: social media accounts, online banking, photos, or cryptocurrency. Without instructions, your family may not know how to handle them. A will gives you the chance to provide clear guidance on what happens to these accounts.
6. You Want to Support Friends or Charities
Minnesota law decides who inherits your property if you don’t leave a will. Usually, it goes to your closest relatives, regardless of your personal wishes. If you’d like to leave something to a close friend or a charity you care about, the only way to make that legally binding is through a will.
7. You’re in a Committed Relationship
If you live with a partner but aren’t legally married, Minnesota law does not automatically recognize your partner’s right to inherit from you. That means they could be left with nothing. A will allows you to provide for your partner and avoid painful disputes among family members.
8. You Care About Medical Decision-Making
While technically separate from a will, drafting a health care directive at the same time is wise. This document spells out your wishes if you’re ever unable to make medical decisions. It also lets you appoint someone you trust to act for you. For unmarried couples, this is especially important, since without legal documents, your partner may not be allowed to step in.
9. You Want to Prevent Family Conflict
If you have difficult relationships, a will and related documents can help you stay in control. Without them, Minnesota law may give certain family members authority over medical decisions or property, even if they are not the people you trust. By naming your own decision-makers, you ensure that only those you choose play a role. You also have the option to disinherit someone who would otherwise inherit under state law. Taking the time to be clear now helps avoid disputes later and keeps your wishes at the center.
Planning Ahead Matters at Any Age
Estate planning may not be at the top of your to-do list when you’re young, but it offers peace of mind and real protection for the people and causes you value. Whether you’re a student, a new professional, or starting a family, creating a will is one of the most meaningful steps you can take.
At Unique Estate Law, we work with Minnesotans of all ages to draft wills, health care directives, and other documents that reflect their wishes. Contact us today to learn how we can help you protect what matters most.